What Is the Holy Spirit?

JESUS once asked his disciples: Which father is there among you who, if his son
asks for a fish, will perhaps hand him a serpent instead of a fish? Or if he also asks for
an egg, will hand him a scorpion? (Luke 11:11, 12) The children of Galilee enjoyed
eating eggs and fish; they knew what they wanted.
Jesus said that we should keep on asking persistently for the holy spirit, like a
hungry child asking for food. (Luke 11:9, 13 ) Understanding the nature of the holy spirit
will enable us to grasp the key role it can play in our lives. So let us first examine what
the Bible teaches us about the holy spirit.
Power of the Most High
The Scriptures make clear that the holy spirit is a force that God uses to accomplish
his will. When the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would have a son even
though she was a virgin, the angel told her: Holy spirit will come upon you, and power
of the Most High will overshadow you. For that reason also what is born will be called
holy, Gods Son. (Luke 1:35) According to Gabriels words, there is a link between the
holy spirit and the power of the Most High.
A similar idea appears elsewhere in the Bible. The prophet Micah said: I myself
have become full of power, with the spirit of Jehovah. (Micah 3:8) Jesus promised his
disciples: You will receive power when the holy spirit arrives upon you. (Acts 1:8) And
the apostle Paul spoke of the power of holy spirit.Romans 15:13, 19 .
So, what may we conclude from the foregoing? There is a close connection between
the holy spirit and the power of God. The holy spirit is the means by which Jehovah
exerts his power. Put simply, the holy spirit is Gods applied power, or his active force.
And what a force that is! We cannot comprehend the power needed to create the
entire universe. Through the prophet Isaiah, Jehovah suggested that we reflect on the
following: Raise your eyes high up and see. Who has created these things? It is the
One who is bringing forth the army of them even by number, all of whom he calls even
by name. Due to the abundance of dynamic energy, he also being vigorous in power,
not one of them is missing.Isaiah 40:26.
Thus the Bible indicates that the universe in all its order and harmony exists thanks
to the dynamic energy, or power, of Almighty God. Clearly, Gods active force
is immense, and our own existence depends on it.See the box The Holy Spirit in
Action.
Jehovah may use his holy spirit on a grand scale, as in the creation of the universe.
But he can also use it in behalf of his human creation. The Bible abounds in references
to how Gods active force infused his servants on earth with power.
Jehovahs Spirit Is Upon Me
The ministry of Jesus gives us a fascinating glimpse of how Gods holy spirit can
empower his servants. Jehovahs spirit is upon me, Jesus told the people of
Nazareth. (Luke 4:18) What did Jesus accomplish in the power of the spirit? (Luke
4:14) He healed every sort of sickness, calmed the waves of a raging sea, fed
thousands of people with a few loaves and fish, and even raised the dead. The apostle
Peter described Jesus as a man publicly shown by God . . . through powerful works
and portents and signs that God did through him.Acts 2:22.
The holy spirit is not currently bringing about such miracles. Nonetheless, it can do
remarkable things for us. Jehovah willingly gives his holy spirit to his worshippers, as
Jesus assured his disciples. (Luke 11:13) Thus, the apostle Paul could say: For all
things I have the strength by virtue of him who imparts power to me. (Philippians 4:13)
Could the holy spirit play such a role in your life? The following article will address that
question.
[Box/Picture on page 5]
Why the Holy Spirit Is Not a Person
The Bible compares the holy spirit to water. When promising future blessings for his
people, God said: I shall pour out water upon the thirsty one, and trickling streams
upon the dry place. I shall pour out my spirit upon your seed, and my blessing upon
your descendants.Isaiah 44:3.
When God pours out his spirit upon his servants, they become full of holy spirit, or
filled with holy spirit. Jesus, John the Baptist, Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and the
disciples who were gathered together on the day of Pentecost 33 C.E. are all
described as being full of, or filled with, holy spirit.Luke 1:15; 4:1; Acts
4:8; 9:17; 11:22, 24; 13:9 .
Consider this: Could a person be poured out on many different individuals? Would
you say that one person could fill a whole group of people? That defies logic. The
Bible does refer to people becoming filled with wisdom, understanding, or even
accurate knowledge, but it never describes anyone as being filled with another person.
Exodus 28:3; 1 Kings 7:14; Luke 2:40; Colossians 1:9 .
The Greek word translated spirit is pneu ma, which also conveys the idea of an
invisible power. According to
Vines Expository Dictionary of New TestamentWords, the word pneu ma primarily
denotes the wind . . . also breath; then, especially the spirit, which, like the wind, is
invisible, immaterial and powerful.
Clearly, then, the holy spirit is not a person.
*
[Footnote]
For more information, see The Truth About the Father, the Son, and the Holy
Spirit, pages 201-204, in the book What Does the Bible Really Teach? published by
Jehovahs Witnesses.
[Credit Line]
Photodisc/SuperStock
Why Be Guided by Gods Spirit?
You are my God. Your spirit is good; may it lead me.PS. 143:10.
HAVE you ever used a compass to find your way? A compass is a simple device
with only one moving parta magnetic needle pointing toward the north. Because of
an invisible force known as magnetism, the needle of the compass aligns itself with the
magnetic field surrounding the earth between its poles. For centuries, explorers and
travelers have used the compass to guide their way over land and sea.
2
There is another invisible force that is even more essential for our guidance. What
is it? The one described in the opening verses of the Bible. Speaking of what Jehovah
accomplished aeons ago, Genesis states: In the beginning God created the heavens
and the earth. As he did so, he sent forth a powerful force, for the creation account
adds: Gods active force was moving to and fro. (Gen. 1:1, 2) What was at work?
Holy spiritthe dynamic force behind creation. We owe our existence to Jehovahs
use of this spirit to produce all his works.Job 33:4; Ps. 104:30 .
3
As living, breathing humans, should we expect Gods active force to have any
further effect on our lives? Gods own Son knew that we should, for Jesus said to his
disciples: The spirit . . . will guide you into all the truth. (John 16:13) How are we to
understand what this spirit is, and why should we want to be guided by it?
The Nature of Holy Spirit
4
Likely, some of the people you talk to in the ministry believe in what
the KingJames Version and some other Bible translations call the Holy Ghost.
Trinitarians wrongly think that this is a spirit person equal with God the Father. (1 Cor.
8:6) It is noteworthy, however, that throughout The Webster Bible, an
amended King JamesVersion originally published in 1833, American lexicographer
Noah Webster replaced Holy Ghost with Holy Spirit. Webster did so because he
knew that in the Scriptures this expression did not mean an apparition.
*
5
What, then, is the true nature of holy spirit? A footnote at Genesis 1:2 in
the NewWorld Translation of the Holy ScripturesWith References states: Besides
being translated spirit, ru ach [Hebrew] is also translated wind and by other words
that denote an invisible active force. (Compare footnotes at Genesis 3:8; 8:1 .) Just as
wind is invisible but exerts force, so the immaterial, impersonal holy spirit is unseen but
produces effects. This spirit is energy from God projected and exerted on people or
things to accomplish his will. Is it hard to believe that such a marvelous force
emanates from the holy Source, Almighty God? Not at all!Read Isaiah40:12, 13 .
6
Can Jehovah continue to use his spirit to guide us through life? He promised the
psalmist David: I shall make you have insight and instruct you in the way you should
go. (Ps. 32:8) Did David want that? Yes, for he appealed to Jehovah: Teach me to do
your will, for you are my God. Your spirit is good; may it lead me. (Ps. 143:10) We
should have the same desire and willingness to be guided by Gods spirit. Why so?
Consider four reasons.
We Are Not Qualified to Guide Ourselves
7
First, we should want to be guided by Gods spirit because we are not capable of
guiding ourselves. To guide means to direct in a course or show the way to be
followed. However, Jehovah did not create us with the ability to do that for ourselves,
especially not in our imperfect condition. His prophet Jeremiah wrote: O Lord, I am
conscious that a mans way is not in himself: man has no power of guiding his steps.
(Jer. 10:23, The Bible in Basic English) And why not? Jeremiah heard Gods analysis
of why we are impaired when it comes to directing ourselves. Speaking of the person
we are inside, Jehovah said: The heart is more treacherous than anything else and is
desperate. Who can know it?Jer. 17:9; Matt. 15:19 .
8
Would it not be foolhardy for an inexperienced person to set off alone, without a
skilled guide and not so much as a compass, hiking deep into an uncharted
wilderness? Not knowing how to survive inhospitable conditions in the wild and not
having the expertise to find his way safely to his destination, he would be putting his
life in jeopardy. So, too, the person who thinks he can direct his course through this
wicked world without allowing God to show him the right way is placing his life in grave
danger. The only chance we have of traversing this system of things successfully is to
make the same prayerful request to Jehovah that David did: Let my steps take hold
on your tracks, in which my footsteps will certainly not be made to totter. (Ps.
17:5; 23:3 ) How is it possible to receive such guidance?
9
If we are humble and willing to depend on Jehovah, he will impart to us his
holyspirit as a sure guide for our steps. How will that active force help us? Jesus
explained to his disciples: The helper, the holy spirit, which the Father will send in my
name, that one will teach you all things and bring back to your minds all the things I
told you. (John 14:26) As we regularly and prayerfully study Gods Word, including all
the sayings of Christ, holy spirit will increase our comprehension of Jehovahs deep
wisdom, so that we can follow his will closely. (1 Cor. 2:10) Additionally, at any
unexpected turn in the road to life, the spirit will show us the way to go. It will bring to
mind Bible principles that we have already learned and help us to grasp how they
apply in directing our next step.
Jesus Was Guided by Gods Spirit
10
A second reason why we should want to be guided by holy spirit is that God led his
own Son by it. Before coming to earth, the only-begotten Son of God knew of the
prophecy: Upon him the spirit of Jehovah must settle down, the spirit of wisdom and
of understanding, the spirit of counsel and of mightiness, the spirit of knowledge and of
the fear of Jehovah. (Isa. 11:2) Just imagine how eager Jesus was to receive the help
of Gods spirit while residing in the environment that he faced here on earth!
11
Jehovahs words came true. The Gospel record states what happened
immediately after Jesus baptism: Now Jesus, full of holy spirit, turned away from the
Jordan, and he was led about by the spirit in the wilderness. (Luke 4:1) There, while
Jesus was fasting, praying, and meditating, Jehovah likely instructed and enlightened
his Son about what lay ahead for him. Gods active force was at work on Jesus mind
and heart, guiding his thinking and decisions. As a result, Jesus knew what to do in
each situation, and he did exactly what his Father wanted him to do.
12
Knowing the value of the effects of Gods spirit in his own life, Jesus impressed on
his disciples the importance of their asking for and being led by holy
spirit. (Read Luke 11:9-13.) Why is that so necessary for us? Because it can
transform our thinking, so that it resembles the mind of Christ. (Rom. 12:2; 1 Cor. 2:16 )
By letting Gods spirit guide our lives, we can think as Christ does and imitate his
example.1 Pet. 2:21.
The Worlds Spirit Would Lead Us Astray
13
The third reason for wanting Gods spirit to guide us is that without it we could
be led astray by the unholy spirit that is at work in the lives of most people today. The
world has its own powerful, impelling force that foments a course totally opposite of
what holy spirit can produce in us. Rather than fostering in people the mind of Christ,
the worlds spirit causes their thinking and actions to resemble those of the ruler of the
world, Satan. (Read Ephesians 2:1-3; Titus 3:3.) When a person gives in to the
worlds spirit and takes up practicing the works of the flesh, grave consequences
result, preventing him from inheriting Gods Kingdom.Gal. 5:19-21.
14
Jehovah has equipped us to resist the spirit of the world. The apostle Paul said to
go on acquiring power in the Lord and in the mightiness of his strength . . . that you
may be able to resist in the wicked day. (Eph. 6:10, 13 ) By means of his spirit,
Jehovah fortifies us to withstand Satans efforts to mislead us. (Rev. 12:9) The spirit of
the world is strong, and we cannot avoid it altogether. However, we do not have to be
corrupted by it. Holy spirit is even stronger, and it will help us!
15
Of those who forsook Christianity in the first century, the apostle Peter said:
Abandoning the straight path, they have been misled. (2 Pet. 2:15) How very thankful
we can be that we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is
from God! (1 Cor. 2:12) With the help of its influence and by taking full advantage of
all of Jehovahs provisions to keep us on the right path spiritually, we can succeed in
resisting the satanic spirit of this wicked world.Gal. 5:16.
Holy Spirit Produces Good Fruitage
16
A fourth reason for wanting Gods spirit to work within us is that it produces healthy
fruitage in the lives of those who are led by it. (Read Galatians 5:22, 23 .)Who among
us would not want to be more loving, joyful, and peaceable? Who of us would not like
to abound in long-suffering, kindness, and goodness? Who of us would not benefit
from developing greater faith, mildness, and self-control? Gods spirit produces in us
fine qualities that benefit us and those with whom we live and serve. Cultivating this
fruitage is a constant work in progress, since there is no limit to the amount of the
spirits fruitage that we need and are permitted to produce.
17
We are wise to take stock of ourselves to be sure that our words and actions give
evidence that we are directed by holy spirit and are producing its fruitage. (2 Cor.
13:5a; Gal. 5:25 ) If we see that we need to cultivate some aspects of the fruitage of the
spirit, we can cooperate with holy spirit to a greater degree in producing such qualities.
We do this by studying each aspect as it is revealed through the pages of the Bible
and discussed in our Christian publications. Thus we can discern how the spirits
fruitage should be manifested in our everyday life and then work to cultivate it to a
greater extent.
*
As we observe the results of the operation of Gods spirit in our own
life as well as in the lives of our fellow Christians, we clearly see why we must be
guided by it.
Are You Yielding to Gods Spirit?
18
As Gods master worker in the creation of the physical universe, Jesus knew
all about the earths magnetic field, which humans use to navigate the earth. (Prov.
8:30; John 1:3 ) However, there is no evidence in the Bible that Jesus ever used that
force to guide his way when he was on earth. The Bible does report that as a human,
he experienced what a powerful force Gods holy spirit was in his life. He welcomed its
influence, and when it impelled him, he yielded and acted accordingly. (Mark 1:12,
13; Luke 4:14 ) Are you of that sort?
19
Gods active force still operates on willing minds and hearts to move and guide
them. How can you let it work upon you to lead you in the right direction? Pray
constantly to Jehovah that he send you his spirit and help you yield to its influence.
(Read Ephesians 3:14-16.) Work in harmony with your prayers by searching out the
counsel found in Gods written Word, the Biblea product of holy spirit. (2 Tim.
3:16, 17) Obey the wise instructions it offers, and then respond eagerly to the leading
of holy spirit. Act with faith in Jehovahs ability to guide you properly through life in this
wicked world.
[Footnotes]
In the preface of his Bible, Webster wrote: Whenever words are understood in a sense
different from that which they had when introduced, and different from that of the
original languages, they do not present to the reader the Word of God.
For a discussion of each aspect, see the subject Fruitage of Gods Spirit and the heading
List by Aspect in the Watch Tower Publications Indexes.
Did You Get the Main Points?
How can holy spirit affect our lives?
What are four reasons why we should want to be guided by Gods spirit?
How can we do our part to benefit fully from the leading of holy spirit?
[Study Questions]
1. Illustrate how an invisible force can guide a person.
2, 3. (a) What powerful force did Jehovah use aeons ago? (b) Why should we expect Gods
invisible active force to guide our lives today?
4, 5. (a) What do Trinitarians wrongly think that the holy spirit is? (b) How would you explain
the true nature of holy spirit?
6. What significant appeal did David make to Jehovah?
7, 8. (a) Why are we not able to guide ourselves independent of God? (b) Illustrate why we
dare not try to find our own way through this wicked system of things.
9. As depicted on page 17, how can Gods spirit serve as a sure guide for us?
10, 11. What expectation did the only-begotten Son of God have regarding holy spirit, and
what did he experience?
12. Why is it necessary that we ask for Gods spirit to lead us?
13. What is the worlds spirit, and what does it produce?
14, 15. How can we succeed in resisting the spirit of the world?
16. What fruitage can holy spirit produce in us?
17. How can we cultivate an aspect of the fruitage of the spirit to a greater extent?
18. How is Jesus a model for us in responding to Gods spirit?
19. What must we do for holy spirit to become the guiding force in our life?
[Picture on page 15]
Gods spirit was an impelling force in Jesus life
[Picture on page 17]
Gods spirit operates on minds and hearts to move and guide them
A Conversation With a NeighborWhat Is theH
oly Spirit?
JEHOVAHS WITNESSES enjoy discussing the Bible with their neighbors. Do you
have a particular Bible question that you have wondered about? Are you curious about
any of the beliefs or religious practices of Jehovahs Witnesses? If so, do not hesitate
to bring up the subject the next time you come in contact with a Witness. He or she will
be pleased to discuss such matters with you.
The following is a typical conversation that one of Jehovahs Witnesses might have
with a neighbor. Let us imagine that a Witness named Scott has called at the home of
a man named Brad.
What Do You Mean by Holy Ghost?
Brad: I have heard that Jehovahs Witnesses are not Christians. You dont believe
in the holy ghost.
Scott: First, let me assure you that we are Christians. My belief in Jesus Christ has
brought me to your door this morning. After all, he is the One who commands his
followers to preach. But may I ask, just what do you mean by holy ghost?
Brad: I mean the holy spirit, the third person in the Trinity, the helper that Jesus
promised to send to us. That helper is very important to me. I want to feel the presence
of the holy spirit in my life.
Scott: Thats how many people understand the holy spirit. Some time ago, I had an
opportunity to examine what the Bible teaches on this subject. If you have a few
minutes, I would be pleased to show you what I learned.
Brad: Yes, I have a few minutes.
Scott: By the way, my name is Scott. May I ask your name?
Brad: Brad. Nice to meet you.
Scott: Nice to meet you too, Brad. Out of respect for your time, let me focus on just
one aspect of this subject. You mentioned that the holy spirit is the helper that Jesus
promised us. I agree with you. But is it your understanding that the holy spirit is a
person and equal to God?
Brad: Yes, that is what I was taught.
Is the Holy Spirit a Person?
Scott: Lets look at a Bible passage that will help us to establish whether the holy
spirit is a person or not. You may be familiar with these verses. At Acts 2:1-4, we read:
Now while the day of the festival of Pentecost was in progress they were all together
at the same place, and suddenly there occurred from heaven a noise just like that of a
rushing stiff breeze, and it filled the whole house in which they were sitting. And
tongues as if of fire became visible to them and were distributed about, and one sat
upon each one of them, and they all became filled with holy spirit and started to speak
with different tongues, just as the spirit was granting them to make utterance.
Brad: Im familiar with that account.
Scott: Now, Brad, can a person get filled with another person?
Brad: Of course not.
Scott: Lets look a little further in the same chapter, at verse 17. The first part of the
verse reads: In the last days, God says, I shall pour out some of my spirit upon
every sort of flesh. Let me ask you, Brad, could God pour out a portion of a coequal
God?
Brad: Again, no.
Scott: John the Baptist used a different description for being filled with holy spirit.
Its found at Matthew 3:11. Would you like to read this verse, please?
Brad: I, for my part, baptize you with water because of your repentance; but the
one coming after me is stronger than I am, whose sandals I am not fit to take off. That
one will baptize you people with holy spirit and with fire.
Scott: Thank you. Did you notice what John the Baptist said would be done with
holy spirit?
Brad: He talked about being baptized with holy spirit.
Scott: Thats right. Notice that he also mentioned being baptized with fire.
Obviously, fire is not a person. Do you think this verse is saying that holy spirit is a
person?
Brad: No.
Scott: So according to the scriptures we have considered, the holy spirit is not a
person.
Brad: I guess not.
How a Helper?
Scott: Earlier, though, you mentioned that expression helper. Jesus referred to the
holy spirit as a helper at John 14:26. Lets read that together: The helper, the holy
spirit, which the Father will send in my name, that one will teach you all things and
bring back to your minds all the things I told you. Some feel that this scripture seems
to support the idea that the holy spirit is a person, someone who will help and teach.
Brad: Right, thats how Ive always viewed it.
Scott: Is it possible, though, that Jesus was using a figure of speech? Now notice
what Jesus said about wisdom, according to Luke 7:35: All the same, wisdom is
proved righteous by all its children. Would you say that wisdom is a person, that it
really does have children?
Brad: No. Thats obviously a figure of speech.
Scott: I agree. Jesus point is that wisdom is demonstrated by results. The Bible
often uses a figure of speech called personificationthat is, speaking of something
inanimate as if it were alive. We often use such figures of speech in our own
conversations. For example, on this bright morning, it wouldnt be unusual for
someone to say, Open the curtains, and let the sun in, would it?
Brad: I would say that myself.
Scott: And would you be referring to the sun as a person who would come into your
home as a guest?
Brad: No, obviously not. Its a figure of speech.
Scott: So when Jesus spoke of the holy spirit as a helper, or teacher, could he have
been using a figure of speech?
Brad: I suppose so. That would fit in with the scriptures you read about the spirit
being poured out and about people being baptized with it. But if the holy spirit is not a
person, what is it?
What Is the Holy Spirit?
Scott: At Acts 1:8, Jesus tells us what the holy spirit is. Would you like to read that?
Brad: You will receive power when the holy spirit arrives upon you, and you will be
witnesses of me both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the most
distant part of the earth.
Scott: Notice that Jesus associates the holy spirit with power. And from the previous
verses we read, where do you think that power comes from?
Brad: From God the Father.
Scott: Thats right. The holy spirit is the same force that God used to create the
universe. The second verse in the Bible refers to it. Genesis 1:2 says: Gods active
force was moving to and fro over the surface of the waters. The Hebrew word here
translated active force is also translated spirit. It is the invisible active force by
means of which God accomplishes his purpose and expresses his will. Let me give
you just one more scripture to consider. It is Luke 11:13. Would you read this verse,
please?
Brad: If you, although being wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children,
how much more so will the Father in heaven give holy spirit to those asking him!
Scott: If the Father in heaven controls the holy spirit, giving it to those who ask him,
could the holy spirit be equal to the Father?
Brad: No. I see your point.
Scott: I dont want to keep you, Brad. You mentioned that you have only a few
minutes. But let me ask a question to summarize our discussion. From the scriptures
we considered, what would you say the holy spirit is?
Brad: Its Gods active force.
Scott: Thats right. And according to John 14:26, when Jesus spoke of the holy
spirit as a helper, or teacher, he was using a figure of speech called personification.
Brad: I never knew that.
Scott: There is something most reassuring to learn from Jesus words.
Brad: Whats that?
Scott: We can ask God for his holy spirit to help us in difficult circumstances. We
can also ask for his spirit to help us learn the truth about him.
Brad: That is interesting. Ill have to think about that.
Scott: Before I go, let me leave you with something else to think about. Since the
holy spirit is Gods active force, then well agree that God can use it to accomplish
anything he chooses.
Brad: Absolutely.
Scott: Then why has he not yet used that limitless power to end all the misery and
wickedness we see in the world around us? Have you ever wondered about that?
*
Brad: I have, actually.
Scott: How about if I come back next week at this same time and we discuss it?
Brad: I would like that very much. See you then.
[Footnote]
For more information, see chapter 11 of the
book What Does the Bible ReallyTeach? published by Jehovahs Witnesses.
The Bibles Viewpoint
Is the Holy Spirit a Person?
WHAT is Gods holy spirit? In its opening words, the Bible speaks of the holy spirit
also rendered Gods active forceas moving to and fro over the surface of the
waters. (Genesis 1:2) In the account of Jesus baptism, while God is described as
being in the heavens, the holy spirit appears descending like a dove upon Jesus.
(Matthew 3:16, 17) Additionally, Jesus spoke of the holy spirit as a helper.John
14:16.
These and other Bible passages have led some to conclude that the holy spirit is a
person, just as God, Jesus, and the angels are individual spirit persons. In fact, for
centuries some of the most influential religions of Christendom have attributed
personality to the holy spirit. Despite this long-standing doctrine, many church
members remain confused, and some even disagree with their religious leaders. For
instance, according to a recent survey, 61 percent of those interviewed believe that
Gods spirit is a symbol of Gods presence or power but is not a living entity. What,
though, does the Bible say?
What the Bible Says
An honest Bible reader cannot help but conclude that the holy spirit differs from
official church descriptions of it as a person. Consider the following Bible accounts.
1. When Mary, the mother of Jesus, visited her cousin Elizabeth, the Bible says that
the unborn child in Elizabeths womb leaped, and Elizabeth was filled with holy spirit.
(Luke 1:41) Is it reasonable that a person would be filled with another person?
2. When John the Baptizer spoke to his disciples about Jesus as the one who would
succeed him, John said: I, for my part, baptize you with water . . . , but the one coming
after me is stronger than I am, whose sandals I am not fit to take off. That one will
baptize you people with holy spirit. (Matthew 3:11) John could hardly have been
referring to the holy spirit as a person when he spoke of baptizing people with it.
3. While visiting a Roman army officer and his family, the apostle Peter spoke of
Jesus as having been anointed by God with holy spirit and power. (Acts 10:38)
Shortly afterward, the holy spirit fell upon the army officers household. The account
says that many were amazed because the free gift of the holy spirit was being poured
out also upon people of the nations. (Acts 10:44, 45) Here again, the terms used are
inconsistent with the idea of the holy spirit being a person.
It is not unusual for Gods Word to personify things that are not a person. These
include wisdom, discernment, sin, death, and undeserved kindness. (Proverbs 8:1
9:6; Romans 5:14, 17, 21; 6:12 ) Jesus himself said that wisdom is proved righteous
by all its children, or its good results. (Luke 7:35) Clearly, wisdom is not a person that
has literal children! Likewise, the holy spirit is not a person simply because in some
instances it is personified.
What Is the Holy Spirit?
In the Bible, Gods holy spirit is identified as Gods power in action. Hence, an
accurate translation of the Bibles Hebrew text refers to Gods spirit as Gods active
force. (Genesis 1:2) This concept is well supported throughout the Bible.Micah
3:8; Luke 1:35; Acts 10:38 .
Contrary to popular belief, God is not present everywhere at all times. Rather, he
dwells in the spirit realm, in an established place of dwelling, or residence. (1 Kings
8:39; 2 Chronicles 6:39 ) The Scriptures also refer to a specific place where God lives
and has his throne. (1 Kings 22:19; Isaiah 6:1; Daniel 7:9; Revelation 4:1-3 )
However, from his established place of dwelling, he can use his active force to reach
out into every corner of both the spirit realm and the physical realm.Psalm 139:7.
Back in 1879, Bible scholar Charles L. Ives aptly illustrated Gods ability to exercise
his power from a fixed location. He wrote: For example, we say, Open the shutters,
and let the sun come into the room. We mean, not the real, bodily sun, but the solar
ray, that which proceeds from the sun. Similarly, God has no need to travel to the
locations where he intends to use his active force. He simply employs his holy spirit,
which can reach to the extremities of creation. Seeing the holy spirit for what it is
Gods powerful active forcecan give you confidence that Jehovah will fulfill his
promises.
HAVE YOU WONDERED?
Does the Bible teach that the holy spirit is a person?Acts 10:44, 45.
What is the holy spirit?Genesis 1:2.
How far-reaching is Gods holy spirit?Psalm 139:7.
CHAPTER 4
Jehovah Is . . . Great in Power
ELIJAH had seen amazing things before. He had seen ravens carrying food to him
twice a day while he lived in hiding. He had seen two containers supplying flour and oil
throughout a long famine and never emptying. He had even seen fire falling from the
sky in response to his prayer. (1 Kings, chapters 17, 18 ) Still, Elijah had never
seen anything like this.
2
As he huddled near the mouth of a cave on Mount Horeb, he witnessed a series of
spectacular events. First there was a wind. It must have made a howling, deafening
roar, for it was so powerful that it sundered mountains and shattered crags. Next there
was an earthquake, unleashing immense forces pent up in the earths crust. Then
came a fire. As it swept through the region, Elijah likely felt the blast of its searing heat.
1 Kings 19:8-12 .
3
All these diverse events that Elijah witnessed had one thing in commonthey were
demonstrations of Jehovah Gods great power. Of course, we do not need to witness a
miracle to discern that God possesses this attribute. It is readily apparent. The Bible
tells us that creation gives proof of Jehovahs eternal power and Godship. (Romans
1:20) Just think of the blinding flashes and rumbling booms of a thunderstorm, the
glorious cascade of a mighty waterfall, the overwhelming vastness of a starry sky! Do
you not see the power of God in such displays? Yet, few in todays world truly
recognize Gods power. Still fewer view it properly. Understanding this divine attribute,
though, gives us many reasons for drawing closer to Jehovah. In this section, we
embark upon a detailed study of Jehovahs matchless power.
An Essential Attribute of Jehovah
4
Jehovah is unique in power. Jeremiah 10:6 says: In no way is there anyone like
you, O Jehovah. You are great, and your name is great in mightiness. Note that
mightiness, or power, is linked with Jehovahs name. Remember, this name evidently
means He Causes to Become. What enables Jehovah to create anything he wants
and to become whatever he chooses? Power, for one thing. Yes, Jehovahs ability to
act, to carry out his will, is unlimited. Such power is one of his essential attributes.
5
Because we could never grasp the full extent of his power, Jehovah uses
illustrations to help us. As we have seen, he uses the bull to symbolize his power.
(Ezekiel 1:4-10) That choice is apt, for even the domesticated bull is a huge and
powerful creature. People in the Palestine of Bible times rarely, if ever, faced anything
stronger. But they did know of a more fearsome sort of bullthe wild bull, or aurochs,
which has since become extinct. (Job 39:9-12) Roman Emperor Julius Caesar once
observed that these bulls were scarcely smaller than elephants. Great is their
strength, he wrote, and great their speed. Imagine how tiny and weak you would feel
standing in the shadow of such a creature!
6
Similarly, man is puny and powerless when compared with the God of power,
Jehovah. To him, even mighty nations are like a mere film of dust on a pair of scales.
(Isaiah 40:15) Unlike any creature, Jehovah has unlimited power, for he alone is called
the Almighty.
*
(Revelation 15:3) Jehovah is vigorous in power and possesses an
abundance of dynamic energy. (Isaiah 40:26) He is the ever-plentiful, inexhaustible
source of power. He depends upon no outside source for energy, for
strength belongs to God. (Psalm 62:11) By what means, though, does Jehovah exert
his power?
How Jehovah Exerts His Power
7
Holy spirit pours forth from Jehovah in limitless supply. It is Gods
power inaction. In fact, at Genesis 1:2, the Bible refers to it as Gods active force.
The original Hebrew and Greek words that are rendered spirit may, in other contexts,
be translated wind, breath, and blast. According to lexicographers, the original-
language words suggest an invisible force in action. Like wind, Gods spirit is invisible
to our eyes, but its effects are real and discernible.
8
Gods holy spirit is endlessly versatile. Jehovah can use it to carry out any purpose
that he has in mind. Aptly, then, in the Bible, Gods spirit is figuratively called his
finger, his strong hand, or his outstretched arm. (Luke 11:20; Deuteronomy
5:15; Psalm 8:3 ) Just as a man might apply his hand to a wide range of tasks requiring
varying degrees of strength or finesse, so God can use his spirit to accomplish any
purposesuch as creating the infinitesimal atom or parting the Red Sea or enabling
first-century Christians to speak in foreign tongues.
9
Jehovah also exerts power through his authority as Universal Sovereign. Can you
imagine having millions upon millions of intelligent, able subjects eager to do your
bidding? Jehovah wields such ruling power. He has human servants, in Scripture often
likened to an army. (Psalm 68:11; 110:3 ) A human is a weak creature, though,
compared with an angel. Why, when the Assyrian army attacked Gods people, a
single angel killed 185,000 of those soldiers in one night! (2 Kings 19:35 ) Gods angels
are mighty in power.Psalm 103:19, 20 .
10
How many angels are there? The prophet Daniel had a vision of heaven in which
he saw well over 100 million spirit creatures before Jehovahs throne, but there is no
indication that he saw the entire angelic creation. (Daniel 7:10) So there may be
hundreds of millions of angels. God is thus called Jehovah of armies. This title
describes his powerful position as Commander of a vast, organized array of mighty
angels. Above all these spirit creatures, he has placed one in charge, his own beloved
Son, the firstborn of all creation. (Colossians 1:15) As the archangelchief over all
the angels, seraphs, and cherubsJesus is the mightiest of all of Jehovahs creations.
11
Jehovah has yet another means of exerting power. Hebrews 4:12 says: The word
of God is alive and exerts power. Have you observed the phenomenal power of Gods
word, or spirit-inspired message, now preserved in the Bible? It can strengthen us,
build up our faith, and help us make profound changes in ourselves. The apostle Paul
warned fellow believers against people engaged in grossly immoral life-styles. Then he
added: Yet that is what some of you were. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11 ) Yes, the word of
God had exerted its power in them and helped them to change.
12
Jehovahs power is so immense and his means of exerting it are so effective that
nothing can stand in his way. Jesus said: With God all things are possible. (Matthew
19:26) To what purposes does Jehovah direct his power?
Power Guided by Purpose
13
Jehovahs spirit is something far greater than any physical force; and Jehovah is
no impersonal force, a mere source of power. He is a personal God in full control of his
own power. What, though, moves him to use it?
14
As we shall see, God uses power to create, to destroy, to protect, to restorein
short, to do whatever suits his perfect purposes. (Isaiah 46:10) In some instances,
Jehovah uses his power to reveal important aspects of his personality and standards.
Above all, he directs his power to fulfill his willto vindicate his sovereignty and
sanctify his holy name by means of the Messianic Kingdom. Nothing can ever thwart
that purpose.
15
Jehovah also uses his power to benefit us as individuals. Note what2 Chronicles
16:9 says: As regards Jehovah, his eyes are roving about through all the earth to
show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him. Elijahs
experience, mentioned at the outset, is a case in point. Why did Jehovah give him that
awesome demonstration of divine power? Well, wicked Queen Jezebel had vowed to
have Elijah executed. The prophet was on the run, fleeing for his life. He felt alone,
frightened, and discouragedas if all his hard work had been in vain. To comfort the
troubled man, Jehovah vividly reminded Elijah of divine power. The wind, the
earthquake, and the fire showed that the most powerful Being in the universe was
there with Elijah. What had he to fear from Jezebel, with the almighty God on his side?
1 Kings 19:1-12 .
*
16
Although now is not his time for performing miracles, Jehovah has not changed
since Elijahs day. (1 Corinthians 13:8 ) He is just as eager today to use his power in
behalf of those who love him. True, he dwells in a lofty spirit realm, but he is not far off
from us. His power is limitless, so distance is no barrier. Rather, Jehovah is near to all
those calling upon him. (Psalm 145:18) Once when the prophet Daniel called upon
Jehovah for help, an angel appeared before he had even finished praying! (Daniel
9:20-23) Nothing can prevent Jehovah from helping and strengthening those whom he
loves.Psalm 118:6.
Does Gods Power Make Him Unapproachable?
17
Should Gods power cause us to fear him? We must answer both yes and no. Yes,
in that this attribute gives us ample reason for godly fear, the profound awe and
respect we discussed briefly in the preceding chapter. Such fear, the Bible tells us, is
the beginning of wisdom. (Psalm 111:10) We also answer no, however, in that Gods
power gives us no reason to feel a morbid dread of him or to shy away from
approaching him.
18
Power tends to corrupt; absolute power corrupts absolutely. So wrote English
nobleman Lord Acton in 1887. His statement has often been repeated, perhaps
because so many people see it as undeniably true. Imperfect humans often abuse
power, as history has confirmed again and again. (Ecclesiastes 4:1; 8:9 ) For this
reason, many mistrust the powerful and withdraw from them. Now, Jehovah has
absolute power. Has it corrupted him in any way? Certainly not! As we have seen, he
is holy, utterly incorruptible. Jehovah is unlike the imperfect men and women of power
in this corrupt world. He has never abused his power, and he never will.
19
Remember, power is not Jehovahs sole attribute. We have yet to study his justice,
his wisdom, and his love. But we should not assume that Jehovahs attributes come to
the fore in a rigid, mechanical manner, as if he exercised only one quality at a time. On
the contrary, we will see in the ensuing chapters that Jehovah always exercises his
power in harmony with his justice, his wisdom, and his love. Think about another
quality that God possesses, one that is rarely present in worldly rulersself-restraint.
20
Imagine meeting a man so huge and powerful that you feel intimidated by him.
However, in time you notice that he seems gentle. He is ever ready and eager to use
his power to help and protect people, especially the defenseless and vulnerable. He
never abuses his strength. You see him slandered without cause, yet his demeanor is
firm but calm, dignified, even kind. You find yourself wondering if you would be able to
show the same gentleness and restraint, especially if you were that strong! As you
come to know such a man, would you not begin to feel drawn to him? We have far
more reason for drawing close to the almighty Jehovah. Consider the full sentence that
is the basis for the title of this chapter: Jehovah isslow to anger and great in power.
(Nahum 1:3) Jehovah is not quick to use his power against people, not even the
wicked. He is mild-tempered and kind. He has proved to be slow to anger in the face
of many provocations.Psalm 78:37-41.
21
Consider Jehovahs self-restraint from a different angle. If you had unlimited
power, do you think you might, at times, be tempted to make people do things your
way? Jehovah, with all his power, does not coerce people to serve him. Even though
serving God is the only way to everlasting life, Jehovah does not force us into such
service. Rather, he kindly dignifies each individual with freedom to choose. He warns
of the consequences of bad choices and tells of the rewards of good choices. But the
choice itself, he leaves to us. (Deuteronomy 30:19, 20 ) Jehovah simply has no interest
in service performed out of coercion or out of morbid fear of his awesome power. He
seeks those who will serve him willingly, out of love.2 Corinthians 9:7 .
22
Let us look at a final reason why we need not live in dread of Almighty God.
Powerful humans tend to be fearful of sharing power with others. Jehovah, however,
delights in empowering his loyal worshipers. He delegates considerable authority to
others, such as his Son. (Matthew 28:18) Jehovah also empowers his servants in
another way. The Bible explains: Yours, O Jehovah, are the greatness and the
mightiness and the beauty and the excellency and the dignity; for everything in the
heavens and in the earth is yours. . . . In your hand there are power and mightiness,
and in your hand is ability to make great and to give strength to all.1 Chronicles
29:11, 12 .
23
Yes, Jehovah will be pleased to give you strength. He even imparts power beyond
what is normal to those who want to serve him. (2 Corinthians 4:7 ) Do you not feel
drawn to this dynamic God, who uses his power in such kind and principled ways? In
the next chapter, we will focus on how Jehovah uses his power to create.
[Footnotes]
The Greek word rendered Almighty literally means Ruler Over All; One Who Has All
Power.
The Bible states that Jehovah was not in the wind . . . , the quaking . . . , the fire. Unlike
worshipers of mythical nature gods, Jehovahs servants do not look for him within the
forces of nature. He is far too great to be contained within anything that he has
created.1 Kings 8:27 .
Questions for Meditation
2 Chronicles 16:7-13 How does the example of King Asa show the seriousness of
failing to trust in Jehovahs power?
Psalm 89:6-18 What effect does Jehovahs power have upon his worshipers?
Isaiah 40:10-31 How is Jehovahs power here described, how extensive is it, and how
can it benefit us individually?
Revelation 11:16-18 What does Jehovah promise to do with his power in the future,
and why is this reassuring to true Christians?
[Study Questions]
1, 2. What amazing things had Elijah seen in his life, but what spectacular events did he
witness from the cave on Mount Horeb?
3. Elijah witnessed evidence of what divine attribute, and where can we see evidence of this
same quality?
4, 5. (a) What link is there between Jehovahs name and his mightiness, or power? (b) Why is
it fitting that Jehovah chose the bull to symbolize his power?
6. Why is Jehovah alone called the Almighty?
7. What is Jehovahs holy spirit, and what is suggested by the original-language words used
in the Bible?
8. In the Bible, what is Gods spirit figuratively called, and why are these comparisons fitting?
9. How extensive is Jehovahs ruling power?
10. (a) Why is the Almighty called Jehovah of armies? (b) Who is the mightiest of all of
Jehovahs creations?
11, 12. (a) In what ways does Gods word exert power? (b) How did Jesus attest to the extent
of Jehovahs power?
13, 14. (a) Why can we say that Jehovah is no impersonal source of power? (b) In what ways
does Jehovah use his power?
15. Jehovah uses his power for what purpose in connection with his servants, and how was
this demonstrated in Elijahs case?
16. Why can we take comfort in contemplating Jehovahs great power?
17. In what sense does Jehovahs power promote fear in us, but what kind of fear does it not
promote?
18. (a) Why do many mistrust powerful people? (b) How do we know that Jehovah cannot be
corrupted by his power?
19, 20. (a) In harmony with what other qualities does Jehovah always exercise his power, and
why is this reassuring? (b) How might you illustrate Jehovahs self-restraint, and why is
it appealing to you?
21. Why does Jehovah refrain from forcing people to do his will, and what does this teach us
about him?
22, 23. (a) What shows that Jehovah delights in empowering others? (b) What will we
consider in the next chapter?
[Picture on page 39]
Look! Jehovah was passing by
Spirit
Definition: The Hebrew word ru ach and the Greek pneu ma, which are often
translated spirit, have a number of meanings. All of them refer to that which is
invisible to human sight and which gives evidence of force in motion. The
Hebrew and Greek words are used with reference to (1) wind, (2) the active life-
force in earthly creatures, (3) the impelling force that issues from a persons
figurative heart and that causes him to say and do things in a certain way,
(4) inspired utterances originating with an invisible source, (5) spirit persons,
and (6) Gods active force, or holy spirit. Several of these usages are here
discussed in relation to topics that may arise in the field ministry.
What is the holy spirit?
A comparison of Bible texts that refer to the holy spirit shows that it is spoken of as
filling people; they can be baptized with it; and they can be anointed with it. (Luke
1:41; Matt. 3:11; Acts 10:38 ) None of these expressions would be appropriate if the
holy spirit were a person.
Jesus also referred to the holy spirit as a helper (Greek, para kletos ), and he said
that this helper would teach, bear witness, speak, and hear. (John 14:16,
17, 26; 15:26; 16:13 ) It is not unusual in the Scriptures for something to be personified.
For example, wisdom is said to have children. (Luke 7:35) Sin and death are spoken
of as being kings. (Rom. 5:14, 21 ) While some texts say that the spirit spoke, other
passages make clear that this was done through angels or humans. (Acts
4:24, 25; 28:25; Matt. 10:19, 20 ; compare Acts 20:23 with Ac 21:10, 11 .) At 1 John 5:6-
8, not only the spirit but also the water and the blood are said to bear witness. So,
none of the expressions found in these texts in themselves prove that the holy spirit is
a person.
The correct identification of the holy spirit must fit all the scriptures that refer to that
spirit. With this viewpoint, it is logical to conclude that the holy spirit is the active force
of God. It is not a person but is a powerful force that God causes to emanate from
himself to accomplish his holy will.Ps. 104:30; 2 Pet. 1:21; Acts 4:31 .
See also pages 406, 407, under the heading Trinity.
What gives evidence that a person really has the holy spirit, or the HolyGhost (
KJ)?
Luke 4:18, 31-35 : [Jesus read from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah:] Jehovahs
spirit is upon me, because he anointed me to declare good news . . . And he went
down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the sabbath; and
they were astounded at his way of teaching, because his speech was with authority.
Now in the synagogue there was a man with a spirit, an unclean demon, and he
shouted with a loud voice . . . But Jesus rebuked it, saying: Be silent, and come out of
him. So, after throwing the man down in their midst, the demon came out of him
without hurting him. (What gave evidence that Jesus had Gods spirit? The account
does not say that he trembled or shouted or moved about in a fervor. Rather, it says
he spoke with authority. It is noteworthy, however, that on that occasion
a demonic spirit did move a man to shout and fall onto the floor.)
Acts 1:8 says that when Jesus followers received holy spirit they would be
witnesses about him. According to Acts 2:1-11, when they did receive that spirit,
observers were impressed by the fact that, although the ones speaking were all
Galileans, they were speaking about the magnificent things of God in languages that
were familiar to the many foreigners who were present. But the record does not say
that there were any emotional outbursts on the part of those who received the spirit.
It is noteworthy that when Elizabeth received the holy spirit and then gave voice to
a loud cry she was not in a meeting for worship but was greeting a visiting relative.
(Luke 1:41, 42 ) When, as reported at Acts 4:31, holy spirit came upon an assembly of
disciples, the place was shaken, but the effect of that spirit on the disciples was, not
that they trembled or rolled about, but that they spoke the word of God with boldness.
Likewise today, boldness in speaking the word of God, zealously engaging in the work
of witnessingthese are what give evidence that a person has holy spirit.
Gal. 5:22, 23 : The fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness,
goodness, faith, mildness, self-control. (It is this fruitage, rather than outbursts of
religious fervor, that one should look for when seeking to find people who truly have
Gods spirit.)
Does ability to speak with great emotion in a tongue that a person neverstudied
prove that he has Gods spirit?
See the main heading Tongues, Speaking in.
Is miraculous healing being done in our day by means of the spirit ofGod?
See the main heading Healing.
Who is baptized with holy spirit?
See page 56, under Baptism, also the main heading Born Again.
Is there a spirit part of man that survives the death of the body?
Ezek. 18:4: The soul that is sinningit itself will die. (RS, NE, KJ, and Dy all
render the Hebrew word ne phesh in this verse as soul, thus saying that it
is thesoul that dies. Some translations that render ne phesh as soul in other
passages use the expression the man or the one in this verse. So, the ne
phesh, the soul, is the person, not an immaterial part of him that survives when his
body dies.) (See the main heading Soul for further details.)
Ps. 146:4: His spirit goes out, he goes back to his ground; in that day his thoughts
do perish. (The Hebrew word here translated spirit is a derivative of ru ach. Some
translators render it breath. When that ru ach, or active life-force, leaves the body, the
persons thoughts perish; they do not continue in another realm.)
Eccl. 3:19-21: There is an eventuality as respects the sons of mankind and an
eventuality as respects the beast, and they have the same eventuality. As the one
dies, so the other dies; and they all have but one spirit, so that there is no superiority of
the man over the beast, for everything is vanity. All are going to one place. They have
all come to be from the dust, and they are all returning to the dust. Who is there
knowing the spirit of the sons of mankind, whether it is ascending upward; and the
spirit of the beast, whether it is descending downward to the earth? (Because of the
inheritance of sin and death from Adam, humans all die and return to the dust, as
animals do. But does each human have a spirit that goes on living as an intelligent
personality after it ceases to function in the body? No; Ec 3 verse 19 answers that
humans and beasts all have but one spirit. Based merely on human observation, no
one can authoritatively answer the question raised in Ec 3 verse 21 regarding the
spirit. But Gods Word answers that there is nothing that humans have as a result of
birth that gives them superiority over beasts when they die. However, because of
Gods merciful provision through Christ, the prospect of living forever has been opened
up to humans who exercise faith, but not to animals. For many of mankind, that will be
made possible by resurrection, when active life-force from God will invigorate them
again.)
Luke 23:46: Jesus called with a loud voice and said: Father, into your hands I
entrust my spirit [Greek, pneu ma ]. When he had said this, he expired. (Notice that
Jesus expired. When his spirit went out he was not on his way to heaven. Not until the
third day from this was Jesus resurrected from the dead. Then, as Acts 1:3, 9 shows, it
was 40 more days before he ascended to heaven. So, what is the meaning of what
Jesus said at the time of his death? He was saying that he knew that, when he died,
his future life prospects rested entirely with God. For further comments regarding the
spirit that returns to God, see page 378, under the heading Soul.)
If Someone Says
Do you have the holy spirit (or the Holy Ghost)?
You might reply: Yes, and that is why I have come to your door today. (Acts
2:17, 18 )
Or you could say: That is what makes it possible for me to share in the Christian
ministry. But I find that not everyone has the same idea as to what gives evidence that
a person really has Gods spirit. What do you look
for? Thenperhaps add: (Discussion of some of the material on pages 381, 382.)
SPIRIT
The Greek pneu ma (spirit) comes from pne o, meaning breathe or blow, and the
Hebrew ru ach (spirit) is believed to come from a root having the same meaning. Ru
ach and pneu ma, then, basically mean breath but have extended meanings beyond
that basic sense. (Compare Hab 2:19; Re 13:15 .) They can also
mean wind; the vital force in living creatures; ones spirit; spirit persons, including God
and his angelic creatures; and Gods active force, or holy spirit. (Compare Koehler and
Baumgartners Lexicon in Veteris Testamenti Libros, Leiden, 1958, pp. 877-879;
Brown, Driver, and Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon of the OldTestament, 1980,
pp. 924-926; Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, edited by G. Friedrich,
translated by G. Bromiley, 1971, Vol. VI, pp. 332-451.) All these meanings have
something in common: They all refer to that which is invisible to human sight and
which gives evidence of force in motion. Such invisible force is capable of producing
visible effects.
Another Hebrew word, neshamah(Ge 2:7), also means breath, but it is more
limited in range of meaning than ru ach. The Greek pnoeseems to have a similar
limited sense (Ac 17:25) and was used by the Septuagint translators to
renderneshamah .
Wind. Consider first the sense that is perhaps easiest to grasp. The context in many
cases shows ru ach to mean wind, as the east wind (Ex 10:13), the four winds.
(Zec 2:6) The mention of such things as clouds, storm, the blowing of chaff or things of
similar nature appearing in the context often makes evident this sense. (Nu 11:31; 1Ki
18:45; 19:11; Job 21:18 ) Because the four winds are used to mean the four directions
east, west, north, and southru ach at times may be rendered as direction or
side.1Ch 9:24; Jer 49:36; 52:23; Eze 42:16-20 .
Job 41:15, 16 says of Leviathans closely fitting scales that not even air [weru ach ]
can come in between them. Here again ru ach represents air in motion, not merely air
in a quiescent or motionless state. Thus the thought of an invisible forceis present, the
basic characteristic of the Hebrew ru ach.
Evidently the only case in the Christian Greek Scriptures in which pneu ma is used
in the sense of wind is at John 3:8.
Man cannot exercise control over the wind; he cannot guide, direct, restrain, or
possess it. Because of this, wind [ru ach ] frequently stands for that which is
uncontrollable or unattainable by manelusive, transitory, in vain, of no genuine
benefit. (Compare Job 6:26; 7:7; 8:2; 16:3; Pr 11:29; 27:15, 16; 30:4; Ec
1:14, 17; 2:11; Isa 26:18; 41:29 .) For a full discussion of this aspect, see WIND.
Spirit Persons. God is invisible to human eyes (Ex 33:20; Joh 1:18; 1Ti 1:17 ), and
he is alive and exercises unsurpassed force throughout the universe. (2Co 3:3; Isa
40:25-31) Christ Jesus states: God is a Spirit [Pneu ma ]. The apostle writes: Now
Jehovah is the Spirit. (Joh 4:24; 2Co 3:17, 18 ) The temple built on Christ as
foundation cornerstone is a place for God to inhabit by spirit.Eph 2:22.
This does not mean that God is an impersonal, bodiless force like the wind. The
Scriptures unmistakably testify to his personality; he also has location so that Christ
could speak of going to his Father, this in order that he might appear before the
person of God [literally, face of God] for us.Joh 16:28; Heb 9:24 ; compare 1Ki
8:43; Ps 11:4; 113:5, 6 ; see JEHOVAH (The Person Identified by the Name).
The expression my spirit (ruchi) used by God at Genesis 6:3 may mean I the
Spirit, even as his use of my soul (naphshi) has the sense of I the person, or my
person. (Isa 1:14; see SOUL [God as Having Soul].) He thereby contrasts his
heavenly spiritual position with that of earthly, fleshly man.
Gods Son. Gods only-begotten son, the Word, was a spirit person like his Father,
hence existing in Gods form (Php 2:5-8), but later became flesh, residing among
mankind as the man Jesus. (Joh 1:1, 14 ) Completing his earthly course, he was put to
death in the flesh, but [was] made alive in the spirit. (1Pe 3:18) His Father resurrected
him, granted his Sons request to be glorified alongside the Father with the glory he
had had in his prehuman state (Joh 17:4, 5 ), and God made him a life-giving spirit.
(1Co 15:45) The Son thus became again invisible to human sight, dwelling in
unapproachable light, whom not one of men has seen or can see.1Ti 6:14-16.
Other spirit creatures. Angels are designated by the terms ru ach and pneu ma in a
number of texts. (1Ki 22:21, 22; Eze 3:12, 14; 8:3; 11:1, 24; 43:5; Ac 23:8, 9; 1Pe
3:19, 20 ) In the Christian Greek Scriptures, the majority of such references are to
wicked spirit creatures, demons.Mt 8:16; 10:1; 12:43-45; Mr 1:23-27; 3:11, 12, 30 .
Psalm 104:4 states that God makes his angels spirits, his ministers a devouring
fire. Some translations would render this: Who makest the winds thy messengers, fire
and flame thy ministers, or similarly. (RS, JP, AT, JB) Such translation of the Hebrew
text is not inadmissible (compare Ps 148:8); however, the apostle Pauls quotation of
the text (Heb 1:7) coincides with that of the GreekSeptuagint and harmonizes with the
rendering first given. (In the Greek text ofHebrews 1:7, the definite article [tous] is used
before angels, not before spirits [pneu mata ], making the angels the subject being
discussed.) Barnes Notes onthe New Testament (1974) says: It is to be presumed
that [Paul], who had been trained in the knowledge of the Hebrew language, would
have had a better opportunity of knowing its [referring to Psalm 104:4] fair construction
than we can; and it is morally certain, that he would employ the
passage in an argument as it was commonly understood by those to whom he wrote
that is, to those who were familiar with the Hebrew language and literature.
Compare Heb 1:14.
Gods angels, though capable of materializing human form and appearing to men,
are not by nature material or fleshly, hence are invisible. They are actively alive and
able to exert great force, and the terms ru ach and pneu ma therefore aptly describe
them.
Ephesians 6:12 speaks of Christians wrestling, not against blood and flesh, but
against the governments, against the authorities, against the world rulers of this
darkness, against the wicked spirit forces in the heavenly places. The latter part of the
text in Greek literally reads: Toward the spiritual (things) [Gr., pneumatika] of the
wickedness in the heavenly [places]. Most modern translations recognize that the
reference here is not simply to something abstract, spiritual wickedness (KJ), but
refers to wickedness carried out by spirit persons. Thus, we have suchrenderings as:
the spirit-forces of evil on high (AT), the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly
places (RS), the spiritual army of evil in the heavens (JB), the superhuman forces of
evil in the heavens (NE).
Gods Active Force; Holy Spirit. By far the majority of occurrences of ru
ach and pneu ma relate to Gods spirit, his active force, his holy spirit.
Not a person. Not until the fourth century C.E. did the teaching that the holy spirit
was a person and part of the Godhead become official church dogma. Early church
fathers did not so teach; Justin Martyr of the second century C.E. taught that the holy
spirit was an influence or mode of operation of the Deity; Hippolytus likewise ascribed
no personality to the holy spirit. The Scriptures themselves unite to show that Gods
holy spirit is not a person but is Gods active force by which he accomplishes his
purpose and executes his will.
It may first be noted that the words in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy
Ghost: and these three are one (KJ) found in older translations at 1 John 5:7 are
actually spurious additions to the original text. A footnote in The Jerusalem Bible, a
Catholic translation, says that these words are not in any of the early Greek MSS
[manuscripts], or any of the early translations, or in the best MSS of the Vulg[ate]
itself. A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament, by Bruce Metzger (1975,
pp. 716-718), traces in detail the history of the spurious passage. It states that the
passage is first found in a treatise entitled Liber Apologeticus, of the fourth century,
and that it appears in Old Latin and Vulgate manuscripts of the Scriptures, beginning in
the sixth century. Modern translations as a whole, both Catholic and Protestant, do not
include them in the main body of the text, because of recognizing their spurious
nature.RS, NE, NAB.
Personification does not prove personality. It is true that Jesus spoke of the holy
spirit as a helper and spoke of such helper as teaching, bearing witness, giving
evidence, guiding, speaking, hearing, and receiving. In so doing, the original
Greek shows Jesus at times applying the masculine personal pronoun to that helper
(paraclete). (Compare Joh 14:16, 17, 26; 15:26; 16:7-15 .) However, it is not unusual in
the Scriptures for something that is not actually a person to be personalized or
personified. Wisdom is personified in the book of Proverbs (1:20-33; 8:1-36 ); and
feminine pronominal forms are used of it in the original Hebrew, as also in many
English translations. (KJ, RS, JP, AT) Wisdom is also personified atMatthew 11:19
and Luke 7:35 , where it is depicted as having both works and children. The apostle
Paul personalized sin and death and also undeserved kindness as kings. (Ro
5:14, 17, 21; 6:12 ) He speaks of sin as receiving an inducement, working out
covetousness, seducing, and killing. (Ro 7:8-11) Yet it is obvious that Paul did not
mean that sin was actually a person.
So, likewise with Johns account of Jesus words regarding the holy spirit, his
remarks must be taken in context. Jesus personalized the holy spirit when speaking of
that spirit as a helper (which in Greek is the masculine substantive para kletos ).
Properly, therefore, John presents Jesus words as referring to that helper aspect of
the spirit with masculine personal pronouns. On the other hand, in the same context,
when the Greek pneu ma is used, John employs a neuter pronoun to refer to the holy
spirit, pneu ma itself being neuter. Hence, we have in Johns use of the masculine
personal pronoun in association with para kletos an example of conformity to
grammatical rules, not an expression of doctrine.Joh 14:16, 17; 16:7, 8 .
Lacks personal identification. Since God himself is a Spirit and is holy and since
all his faithful angelic sons are spirits and are holy, it is evident that if the holy spirit
were a person, there should reasonably be given some means in the Scriptures to
distinguish and identify such spirit person from all these other holy spirits. It would be
expected that, at the very least, the definite article would be used with it in all cases
where it is not called Gods holy spirit or is not modified by some similar expression.
This would at least distinguish it as THE Holy Spirit. But, on the contrary, in a large
number of cases the expression holy spirit appears in the original Greek without the
article, thus indicating its lack of personality.Compare Ac
6:3, 5; 7:55; 8:15, 17, 19; 9:17; 11:24; 13:9, 52; 19:2; Ro 9:1; 14:17; 15:13, 16, 19; 1Co
12:3; Heb 2:4; 6:4; 2Pe 1:21; Jude 20 , Int and other interlinear translations.
How baptized in its name. At Matthew 28:19 reference is made to the name of
the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit. A name can mean something other
than a personal name. When, in English, we say, in the name of the law, or in the
name of common sense, we have no reference to a person as such. By name in
these expressions we mean what the law stands for or its authority and what
common sense represents or calls for. The Greek term for name (o noma ) also can
have this sense. Thus, while some translations (KJ, AS) follow the Greek text
at Matthew 10:41 literally and say that the one that receiveth a
prophet in thename of a prophet, shall receive a prophets reward; and he that
receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man, shall receive a righteous
mans reward, more modern translations say, receives a prophet because he is a
prophet and receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man, or similar.
(RS, AT, JB, NW) Thus, Robertsons Word Pictures in the New Testament (1930,
Vol. I, p. 245) says on Matthew 28:19: The use of name (onoma) here is a common
one in the Septuagint and the papyri for power or authority. Hence baptism in the
name of the holy spirit implies recognition of that spirit as having its source in God and
as exercising its function according to the divine will.
Other evidence of its impersonal nature. Further evidence against the idea of
personality as regards the holy spirit is the way it is used in association with other
impersonal things, such as water and fire (Mt 3:11; Mr 1:8 ); and Christians are spoken
of as being baptized in holy spirit. (Ac 1:5; 11:16 ) Persons are urged to become filled
with spirit instead of with wine. (Eph 5:18) So, too, persons are spoken of as being
filled with it along with such qualities as wisdom and faith (Ac 6:3, 5; 11:24 ) or joy (Ac
13:52); and holy spirit is inserted, or sandwiched in, with a number of such qualities
at 2 Corinthians 6:6 . It is most unlikely that such expressions would be made if the holy
spirit were a divine person. As to the spirits bearing witness (Ac 5:32; 20:23 ), it may
be noted that the same thing is said of the water and the blood at 1 John 5:6-8 . While
some texts refer to the spirit as witnessing, speaking, or saying things, other texts
make clear that it spoke through persons, having no personal voice of its own.
(Compare Heb 3:7; 10:15-17; Ps 95:7; Jer 31:33, 34; Ac 19:2-6; 21:4; 28:25 .) It may
thus be compared to radio waves that can transmit a message from a person speaking
into a microphone and cause his voice to be heard by persons a distance away, in
effect, speaking the message by a radio loudspeaker. God, by his spirit, transmits his
messages and communicates his will to the minds and hearts of his servants on earth,
who, in turn, may convey that message to yet others.
Distinguished from power. Ru ach and pneu ma, therefore, when used with
reference to Gods holy spirit, refer to Gods invisible active force by which he
accomplishes his divine purpose and will. It is holy because it is from Him, not of an
earthly source, and is free from all corruption as the spirit of holiness. (Ro 1:4) It is
not Jehovahs power, for this English word more correctly translates other terms in
the original languages (Heb., ko ach; Gr., dy namis ). Ru ach and pneu ma are used in
close association or even in parallel with these terms signifying power, which shows
that there is an inherent connection between them and yet a definite distinction. (Mic
3:8; Zec 4:6; Lu 1:17, 35; Ac 10:38 ) Power is basically the ability or capacity to act or
do things and it can be latent, dormant, or inactively resident in someone or
something. Force, on the other hand, more specifically describes
energy projected and exerted on persons or things, and may be defined as an
influence that produces or tends to produce motion, or change of motion. Power
might be likened to the energy stored in a battery, while force could be compared to
the electric current flowing from such battery. Force, then, more accurately
represents the sense of the Hebrew and Greek terms as relating to Gods spirit, and
this is borne out by a consideration of the Scriptures.
Its Use in Creation. Jehovah God accomplished the creation of the material
universe by means of his spirit, or active force. Regarding the planet Earth in its early
formative stages, the record states that Gods active force [or spirit (ru ach )] was
moving to and fro over the surface of the waters. (Ge 1:2) Psalm 33:6 says: By the
word of Jehovah the heavens themselves were made, and by the spirit of his mouth all
their army. Like a powerful breath, Gods spirit can be sent forth to exert power even
though there is no bodily contact with that which is acted upon. (Compare Ex 15:8, 10 .)
Where a human craftsman would use the force of his hands and fingers to produce
things, God uses his spirit. Hence that spirit is also spoken of as Gods hand or
fingers.Compare Ps 8:3; 19:1; Mt 12:28 with Lu 11:20.
Modern science speaks of matter as organized energy, like bundles of energy, and
recognizes that matter can be changed into energy and energy into matter.
(The World Book Encyclopedia, 1987, Vol. 13, p. 246) The immensity of the universe
that man has thus far been able to discern with his telescopes gives some slight
concept of the inexhaustible source of energy to be found in Jehovah God. As the
prophet wrote: Who has taken the proportions of the spirit of Jehovah?Isa 40:12,
13, 25, 26 .
Source of animate life, reproductive powers. Not only inanimate creation but also
all animate creation owes its existence and life to the operation of Jehovahs spirit that
produced the original living creatures through whom all living creatures today have
come to exist. (Compare Job 33:4; see section of this article under Breath; Breath of
Life; Life-Force.) Jehovah used his holy spirit to revive the reproductive powers of
Abraham and Sarah, and therefore Isaac could be spoken of as born in the manner of
spirit. (Ga 4:28, 29 ) By his spirit God also transferred his Sons life from heaven to
earth, causing conception in the womb of the virgin Jewess Mary.Mt 1:18, 20; Lu
1:35.
Spirit Used on Behalf of Gods Servants. A principal operation of Gods spirit
involves its ability to inform, to illuminate, to reveal things. Therefore David could pray:
Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Your spirit is good; may it lead me in
the land of uprightness. (Ps 143:10) Much earlier, Joseph had given the interpretation
of Pharaohs prophetic dreams, being enabled to do so by Gods help. The Egyptian
ruler recognized the operation of Gods spirit in him. (Ge 41:16, 25-39 ) This
illuminating power of the spirit is particularly notable in prophecy. Prophecy, as the
apostle shows, did not spring from human interpretation of circumstances and events;
it was not the result of some innate ability of the prophets to explain the meaning and
significance of these or to forecast the shape of coming events. Rather, such men
were borne along by holy spiritconveyed, moved, and guided by Gods active
force. (2Pe 1:20, 21; 2Sa 23:2; Zec 7:12; Lu 1:67; 2:25-35; Ac 1:16; 28:25 ;
see PROPHECY; PROPHET.) So, too, all the inspired Scriptures were inspired of
God, which translates the Greek theo pneustos, meaning, literally, God-breathed.
(2Ti 3:16) The spirit operated in various manners in communicating with such men and
guiding them, in some cases causing them to see visions or dreams (Eze 37:1; Joe
2:28, 29; Re 4:1, 2; 17:3; 21:10 ), but in all cases operating on their minds and hearts to
motivate and guide them according to Gods purpose.Da 7:1; Ac 16:9, 10; Re 1:10,
11; see INSPIRATION.
Gods spirit, then, not only brings revelation and understanding of Gods will but also
energizes his servants to accomplish things in accord with that will. That spirit acts as
a driving force that moves and impels them, even as Mark says the spirit impelled
Jesus to go into the wilderness after his baptism. (Mr 1:12; compare Lu 4:1.) It can be
like a fire within them, causing them to be aglow with that force (1Th 5:19; Ac
18:25; Ro 12:11 ), in a sense building up steam or pressure in them to do certain
work. (Compare Job 32:8, 18-20; 2Ti 1:6, 7 .) They receive the power of the spirit, or
power through his spirit. (Lu 2:27; Eph 3:16 ; compare Mic 3:8.) Yet it is not merely
some unconscious, blind impulse, for their minds and hearts are affected as well so
that they can intelligently cooperate with the active force given them. Thus the apostle
could say of those who had received the gift of prophecy in the Christian congregation
that the gifts of the spirit of the prophets are to be controlled by the prophets, so that
good order might be maintained.1Co 14:31-33.
Variety of operations. Even as an electric current can be used to accomplish a
tremendous variety of things, so Gods spirit is used to commission and enable
persons to do a wide variety of things. (Isa 48:16; 61:1-3 ) As Paul wrote of the
miraculous gifts of the spirit in his day: Now there are varieties of gifts, but there is the
same spirit; and there are varieties of ministries, and yet there is the same Lord; and
there are varieties of operations, and yet it is the same God who performs all the
operations in all persons. But the manifestation of the spirit is given to each one for a
beneficial purpose.1Co 12:4-7.
The spirit has qualifying force or capacity; it can qualify persons for a work or for an
office. Though Bezalel and Oholiab may have had knowledge of crafts before their
appointment in connection with the making of the tabernacle equipment and priestly
garments, Gods spirit filled them with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge so that
the work could be done in the way purposed. It heightened whatever natural abilities
and acquired knowledge they already had, and it enabled them to teach others. (Ex
31:1-11; 35:30-35 ) The architectural plans for the later temple were given to David by
inspiration, that is, through the operation of Gods spirit, thus enabling David to
undertake extensive preparatory work for the project.1Ch 28:12.
Gods spirit acted on and through Moses in prophesying and performing miraculous
acts, as well as in leading the nation and acting as judge for it, thereby foreshadowing
the future role of Christ Jesus. (Isa 63:11-13; Ac 3:20-23 ) However, Moses as an
imperfect human found the load of responsibility heavy, and God took away some of
the spirit that was on Moses and placed it upon 70 older men so that they might help
in carrying the load. (Nu 11:11-17, 24-30 ) The spirit also became operative on David
from the time of his anointing by Samuel onward, guiding and preparing him for his
future kingship.1Sa 16:13.
Joshua became full of the spirit of wisdom as Moses successor. But the spirit did
not produce in him the ability to prophesy and perform miraculous works to the extent
that it had in Moses. (De 34:9-12) However, it enabled Joshua to lead Israel in the
military campaign that brought about the conquest of Canaan. Similarly, Jehovahs
spirit enveloped other men, impelling them as fighters on behalf of Gods people,
fighters such as Othniel, Gideon, Jephthah, and Samson.Jg 3:9,
10; 6:34; 11:29; 13:24, 25; 14:5, 6, 19; 15:14 .
The spirit of God energized men to speak his message of truth boldly and
courageously before opposers and at the risk of their lives.Mic 3:8.
Its being poured out on his people is evidence of his favor, and it results in
blessings and makes them prosper.Eze 39:29; Isa 44:3, 4 .
Judging and executing judgment. By his spirit God exercises judgment on men
and nations; he also carries out his judgment decreespunishing or destroying. (Isa
30:27, 28; 59:18, 19 ) In such cases, ru ach may be fittingly rendered blast, as when
Jehovah speaks of causing a blast [ru ach ] of windstorms to burst forth in his rage.
(Eze 13:11, 13 ; compare Isa 25:4; 27:8 .) Gods spirit can reach everywhere, acting for
or against those who receive his attention.Ps 139:7-12.
At Revelation 1:4 the seven spirits of God are mentioned as before his throne, and
thereafter seven messages are given, each concluding with an admonition to hear
what the spirit says to the congregations. (Re 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22 ) These
messages contain heart-searching pronouncements of judgment and promises of
reward for faithfulness. Gods Son is shown as having these seven spirits of God (Re
3:1); and they are spoken of as being seven lamps of fire (Re 4:5), and also as seven
eyes of the lamb that is slaughtered, which eyes mean the seven spirits of God that
have been sent forth into the whole earth. (Re 5:6) Seven being used as
representative of completeness in other prophetic texts (seeNUMBER, NUMERAL), it
appears that these seven spirits symbolize the full active capacity of observation,
discernment, or detection of the glorified Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, enabling him
to inspect all the earth.
Gods Word is the spirits sword (Eph 6:17), revealing what a person really is,
exposing hidden qualities or heart attitudes and causing him either to soften his heart
and conform to Gods will expressed by that Word or to harden his heart in rebellion.
(Compare Heb 4:11-13; Isa 6:9, 10; 66:2, 5 .) Gods Word therefore plays a forceful
part in predicting adverse judgment, and since Gods word or message must be
carried out, the fulfillment of that word produces an action like that of fire on straw and
like that of a forge hammer in smashing the crag. (Jer 23:28, 29 ) Christ Jesus, as
Gods principal Spokesman, as The Word of God, declares the divine judgment
messages and is authorized to order the execution of such judgments upon those
judged. This is doubtless what is meant by references to his doing away with Gods
enemies by the spirit [activating force] of his mouth.Compare2Th 2:8; Isa
11:3, 4; Re 19:13-16, 21 .
Gods spirit acts as helper for congregation. As he promised, Jesus upon
ascending to heaven requested of his Father the holy spirit, or active force of God, and
was granted the authority to employ this spirit. He poured it out on his faithful
disciples on the day of Pentecost, continuing to do so thereafter for those turning to
God through his Son. (Joh 14:16, 17, 26; 15:26; 16:7; Ac 1:4, 5; 2:1-4, 14-18, 32,
33, 38 ) As they had been baptized in water, now they were all baptized into one body
by that one spirit, immersed in it, as it were, somewhat like a piece of iron can be
immersed in a magnetic field and thereby be imbued with magnetic force. (1Co 12:12,
13; compare Mr 1:8; Ac 1:5 .) Though Gods spirit had operated on the disciples before,
as evidenced by their being able to cast out demons (compare Mt 12:28; Mr 3:14, 15 ),
it now operated on them in a heightened and more extensive manner and in new ways
not previously experienced.Compare Joh 7:39.
As the Messianic King, Christ Jesus has the spirit of wisdom and of understanding,
the spirit of counsel and of mightiness, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of
Jehovah. (Isa 11:1, 2; 42:1-4; Mt 12:18-21 ) This force for righteousness is manifest in
his use of Gods active force, or spirit, in directing the Christian congregation on earth,
Jesus being, by Gods appointment, its Head, Owner, and Lord. (Col 1:18; Jude 4 ) As
a helper, that spirit now gave them increased understanding of Gods will and
purpose and opened up Gods prophetic Word to them. (1Co 2:10-16; Col 1:9, 10; Heb
9:8-10) They were energized to serve as witnesses in all the earth (Lu 24:49; Ac
1:8; Eph 3:5, 6 ); they were granted miraculous gifts of the spirit, enabling them to
speak in foreign languages, prophesy, heal, and perform other activities that would
both facilitate their proclamation of the good news and serve as evidence of their
divine commission and backing.Ro 15:18, 19; 1Co 12:4-11; 14:1, 2, 12-16 ;
compare Isa 59:21; seeGIFTS FROM GOD (Gifts of the Spirit).
As the congregations Overseer, Jesus used the spirit in a governmental way
guiding in the selection of men for special missions and for serving in the oversight,
teaching, and readjustment of the congregation. (Ac 13:2-4; 20:28; Eph 4:11, 12 ) He
moved them, as well as restricted them, indicating where to concentrate their
ministerial efforts (Ac 16:6-10; 20:22 ), and made them effective as writers of letters of
Christ, inscribed with the spirit of God on fleshly tablets, human hearts. (2Co
3:2, 3; 1Th 1:5 ) As promised, the spirit refreshed their memories, stimulated their
mental powers, and emboldened them in bearing witness even before rulers.
Compare Mt 10:18-20; Joh 14:26; Ac 4:5-8, 13, 31; 6:8-10 .
As living stones, they were being formed into a spiritual temple based on Christ,
one through which spiritual sacrifices would be made (1Pe 2:4-6; Ro 15:15, 16 ) and
spiritual songs sung (Eph 5:18, 19 ) and in which God would reside by spirit. (1Co
3:16; 6:19, 20; Eph 2:20-22 ; compare Hag 2:5.) Gods spirit is a unifying force of
enormous strength, and as long as such Christians allowed it free course among them,
it joined them peacefully together in bonds of love and devotion to God, his Son, and
one another. (Eph 4:3-6; 1Jo 3:23, 24; 4:12, 13 ; compare 1Ch 12:18.) The gift of the
spirit did not equip them for mechanical types of activity, as it had Bezalel and others
who manufactured and produced material structures and equipment, but it fitted them
for spiritual works of teaching, guiding, shepherding, and counseling. The spiritual
temple they formed was to be adorned with the beautiful fruits of Gods spirit, and that
fruitage of love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, and similar
qualities was proof positive that Gods spirit was operating in and among them. (Ga
5:22, 23; compare Lu 10:21; Ro 14:17 .) This was the basic and primary factor
producing good order and effective guidance among them. (Ga 5:24-26; 6:1; Ac 6:1-7 ;
compare Eze 36:26, 27 .) They submitted themselves to the law of the spirit, an
effective force for righteousness working to keep out the practices of the innately sinful
flesh. (Ro 8:2; Ga 5:16-21; Jude 19-21 ) Their confidence was in Gods spirit operating
on them, not in fleshly abilities or background.1Co 2:1-5; Eph 3:14-17; Php 3:1-8 .
When questions arose, the holy spirit was a helper in arriving at a decision, as in the
question of circumcision, decided by the body, or council, of apostles and older men at
Jerusalem. Peter told of the spirits being granted to uncircumcised people of the
nations; Paul and Barnabas related the spirits operations in their ministry among such
persons; and James, his memory of the Scriptures doubtless aided by holy spirit,
called attention to the inspired prophecy of Amos foretelling that Gods name would be
called on people of the nations. Thus all the thrust or drive of Gods holy spirit pointed
in one direction, and hence, in recognition of this, when writing the letter conveying
their decision, this body or council said: For the holy spirit and we ourselves have
favored adding no further burden to you, except these necessary things.Ac 15:1-29.
Anoints, begets, gives spiritual life. As God had anointed Jesus with his holy
spirit at the time of Jesus baptism (Mr 1:10; Lu 3:22; 4:18; Ac 10:38 ), so he now
anointed Jesus disciples. This anointing with the spirit was a token to them of the
heavenly inheritance to which they were now called (2Co 1:21, 22; 5:1, 5; Eph
1:13, 14 ), and it bore witness to them that they had been begotten, or brought forth,
by God to be his sons with the promise of spirit life in the heavens. (Joh 3:5-8; Ro
8:14-17, 23; Tit 3:5; Heb 6:4, 5 ) They were made clean, sanctified, and declared
righteous in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and with the spirit of our God, by
which spirit Jesus had been qualified to provide the ransom sacrifice and become
Gods high priest.1Co 6:11; 2Th 2:13; Heb 9:14; 1Pe 1:1, 2 .
Because of this heavenly calling and inheritance, Jesus spirit-anointed followers
had a spiritual life, though yet living as imperfect, fleshly creatures. This is evidently
what the apostle refers to when contrasting earthly fathers with Jehovah God, the
Father of our spiritual life [literally, Father of the spirits]. (Heb 12:9; compare verse
23.) As joint heirs with Christ, who are due to be raised up from death in a spiritual
body bearing his heavenly image, they should live on earth as one spirit in union with
him as their Head, not letting the desires or immoral tendencies of their flesh be the
force controlling them, such a thing even resulting perhaps in their becoming one
flesh with a harlot.1Co 6:15-18; 15:44-49; Ro 8:5-17 .
Gaining and retaining Gods spirit. The holy spirit is Gods free gift, which he
gladly grants to those who sincerely seek and request it. (Ac 2:38; Lu 11:9-13 ) A right
heart is the key factor (Ac 15:8), but knowledge and conformity to Gods requirements
are also essential factors. (Compare Ac 5:32; 19:2-6 .) Once received, the Christian
should not grieve Gods spirit by disregarding it (Eph 4:30; compare Isa 63:10), taking
a course contrary to its leading, fixing the heart on goals other than that to which it
points and impels, rejecting the inspired Word of God and its counsel and application
to oneself. (Ac 7:51-53; 1Th 4:8 ; compare Isa 30:1, 2 .) By hypocrisy one can play
false to that holy spirit by which Christ directs the congregation, and those who make
a test of its power in this way follow a disastrous course. (Ac 5:1-11; contrast Ro 9:1.)
Deliberate opposition to and rebellion against the evident manifestation of Gods spirit
can mean blasphemy against that spirit, a sin that is unforgivable.Mt 12:31, 32; Mr
3:29, 30; compareHeb 10:26-31.
Breath; Breath of Life; Life-Force. The account of the creation of man states that
God formed man from the dust of the ground and proceeded to blow [form ofnaphach
] into his nostrils the breath [form of neshamah] of life, and the man came to be a
living soul [ne phesh ]. (Ge 2:7; see SOUL.) Ne phesh may be translated literally as a
breather, that is, a breathing creature, either human or animal. Neshamahis, in
fact, used to mean breathing thing [or creature] and as such is used as a virtual
synonym of ne phesh, soul. (Compare De 20:16; Jos 10:39, 40; 11:11; 1Ki 15:29 .)
The record at Genesis 2:7 uses neshamahin describing Gods causing Adams body
to have life so that the man became a living soul. Other texts, however, show that
more was involved than simple breathing of air, that is, more than the mere
introduction of air into the lungs and its expulsion therefrom. Thus, at Genesis 7:22, in
describing the destruction of human and animal life outside the ark at the time of the
Flood, we read: Everything in which the breath [form of neshamah] of the force [or,
spirit (ru ach )] of life was active in its nostrils, namely, all that were on the dry ground,
died. Neshamah , breath, is thus directly associated or linked with ru ach, which
here describes the spirit, or life-force, that is active in all living creatureshuman and
animal souls.
As the Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (Vol. VI, p. 336) states: Breath
may be discerned only in movement [as in the movement of the chest or the
expanding of the nostrils], and it is also a sign, condition and agent of life, which
seems to be esp[ecially] tied up with breathing. Hence, the neshamah , or breath, is
both the product of the ru ach, or life-force, and also a principal means of sustaining
that life-force in living creatures. It is known from scientific studies, for example, that
life is present in every single cell of the bodys one hundred trillion cells and that, while
thousands of millions of cells die each minute, constant reproduction of new living cells
goes on. The life-force active in all the living cells is dependent upon the oxygen that
breathing brings into the body, which oxygen is transported to all the cells by the
bloodstream. Without oxygen some cells begin to die after several minutes, others
after a longer period. While a person can go without breathing for a few minutes and
still survive, without the life-force in his cells he is dead beyond all human ability to
revive him. The Hebrew Scriptures, inspired by mans Designer and Creator, evidently
use ru ach to denote this vital force that is the very principle of life, and neshamahto
represent the breathing that sustains it.
Because breathing is so inseparably connected with life, neshamahand ru ach are
used in clear parallel in various texts. Job voiced his determination to avoid
unrighteousness while my breath [form of neshamah] is yet whole within me, and the
spirit [weru ach ] of God is in my nostrils. (Job 27:3-5) Elihu said: If that ones spirit
[form of ru ach ] and breath [form of neshamah] he [God] gathers to himself, all flesh
will expire [that is, breathe out] together, and earthling man himself will return to the
very dust. (Job 34:14, 15 ) Similarly, Psalm 104:29 says of earths creatures, human
and animal: If you [God] take away their spirit, they expire, and back to their dust they
go. At Isaiah 42:5 Jehovah is spoken of as the One laying out the earth and its
produce, the One giving breath to the people on it, and spirit to those walking in it.
The breath (neshamah) sustains their existence; the spirit (ru ach ) energizes and is
the life-force that enables man to be an animated creature, to move, walk, be actively
alive. (Compare Ac 17:28.) He is not like the lifeless, breathless, inanimate idols of
human fabrication.Ps 135:15, 17; Jer 10:14; 51:17; Hab 2:19 .
While neshamah(breath) and ru ach (spirit; active force; life-force) are sometimes
used in a parallel sense, they are not identical. True, the spirit, or ru ach, is at times
spoken of as though it were the respiration (neshamah) itself, but this seems to be
simply because breathing is the prime visible evidence of the life-force in ones body.
Job 9:18; 19:17; 27:3 .
Thus at Ezekiel 37:1-10 the symbolic vision of the valley of dry bones is presented,
the bones coming together, becoming covered with sinews, flesh, and skin, but as
regards breath [weru ach ], there was none in them. Ezekiel was told to prophesy to
the wind [haru ach ], saying, From the four winds [form of ru ach ] come in, O wind,
and blow upon these killed people, that they may come to life. The reference to
the four winds shows that wind is the appropriate rendering for ru ach in this case.
However, when such wind, which is simply air in motion, entered the nostrils of the
dead persons of the vision, it became breath, which is also air in motion. Thus, the
rendering of ru ach as breath at this point of the account (vs 10) is also more
appropriate than spirit or life-force. Ezekiel also would be able to see the bodies
begin to breathe, even though he could not see the life-force, or spirit, energizing their
bodies. As verses 11-14 show, this vision was symbolic of a spiritual (not physical)
revivification of the people of Israel who were for a time in a spiritually dead state due
to their Babylonian exile. Since they were already physically alive and breathing, it is
logical to render ru ach as spirit in verse 14, where God states that he will put his
spirit in his people so that they would become alive, spiritually speaking.
A similar symbolic vision is given at Revelation chapter 11 . The picture is presented
of two witnesses who are killed and whose corpses are allowed to lie on the street for
three and a half days. Then spirit [or breath, pneu ma ] of life from God entered into
them, and they stood upon their feet. (Re 11:1-11) This vision again draws on a
physical reality to illustrate a spiritual revivification. It also shows that the Greek pneu
ma, like the Hebrew ru ach, may represent the life-giving force from God that animates
the human soul or person. As James 2:26 states: The body without spirit [pneu
matos ] is dead.Int.
Therefore, when God created man in Eden and blew into his nostrils the breath
[form of neshamah] of life, it is evident that, in addition to filling the mans lungs with
air, God caused the life-force, or spirit (ru ach ), to vitalize all the cells in Adams body.
Ge 2:7; compare Ps 104:30; Ac 17:25 .
This life-force is passed on from parents to offspring through conception. Since
Jehovah was the original Source of this life-force for man, and the Author of the
procreation process, ones life can properly be attributed to Him, though received not
directly but indirectly through ones parents.Compare Job 10:9-12; Ps 139:13-16; Ec
11:5.
Life-force, or spirit, is impersonal. As noted, the Scriptures refer to the ru ach, or
life-force, as being not only in humans but also in animals. (Ge
6:17; 7:15, 22 )Ecclesiastes 3:18-22 shows that man dies in the same manner as the
beasts, for they all have but one spirit [weru ach ], so that there is no superiority of the
man over the beast, that is, as to the life-force common to both. This being so, it is
clear that the spirit, or life-force (ru ach ), as used in this sense is impersonal. As an
illustration, one might compare it to another invisible force, electricity, which may be
used to make various types of machines operatecausing stoves to produce heat,
fans to produce wind, computers to solve problems, television sets to produce figures,
voices and other soundsyet which electric current never takes on any of the
characteristics of the machines in which it functions or is active.
Thus, Psalm 146:3, 4 says that when mans spirit [form of ru ach ] goes out, he goes
back to his ground; in that day his thoughts do perish. The spirit, or life-force, that was
active in mans body cells does not retain any of the characteristics of those cells, such
as the brain cells and their part in the thinking process. If the spirit, or life-force (ru
ach; pneu ma ), were not impersonal, then it would mean that the children of certain
Israelite women who were resurrected by the prophets Elijah and Elisha were actually
in conscious existence somewhere in the period during which they were dead. So, too,
with Lazarus, who was resurrected some four days after his death. (1Ki 17:17-23; 2Ki
4:32-37; Joh 11:38-44 ) If such had been the case, it is reasonable that they would
have remembered such conscious existence during that period and upon being
resurrected would have described it, told about it. There is nothing to indicate that any
of them did so. Hence, the personality of the dead individual is not perpetuated in the
life-force, or spirit, that stops functioning in the deceased persons body cells.
Ecclesiastes 12:7 states that at death the persons body returns to the dust, and the
spirit itself returns to the true God who gave it. The person himself was never in
heaven with God; what returns to God is therefore the vital force that enabled the
person to live.
In view of the impersonal nature of the life-force, or spirit, found in man (as also in
the animal creation), it is evident that Davids statement at Psalm 31:5, quoted by
Jesus at the time of his death (Lu 23:46), Into your hand I entrust my spirit, meant
that God was being called upon to guard, or care for, that ones life-force. (CompareAc
7:59.) That there be an actual and literal transmission of some force from this planet to
the heavenly presence of God is not necessarily required. Even as the fragrant scent
of animal sacrifices was spoken of as being smelled by God (Ge 8:20, 21 ), whereas
such scent undoubtedly remained within earths atmosphere, so, too, God could
gather in, or could accept as entrusted to him, the spirit or life-force in a figurative
sense, that is, without any literal transmission of vital force from earth. (Job 34:14; Lu
23:46) A persons entrusting his spirit evidently means, then, that he places his hope in
God for a future restoration of such life-force to himself through a resurrection.
Compare Nu 16:22; 27:16; Job 12:10; Ps 104:29, 30 .
Impelling Mental Inclination. Ru ach and pneu ma are both used to designate the
force that causes a person to display a certain attitude, disposition, or emotion or to
take a certain action or course. While that force within the person is itself invisible, it
produces visible effects. This use of the Hebrew and Greek terms rendered spirit and
basically related to breath or to air in motion is paralleled to a considerable degree by
English expressions. Thus, we speak of a person as putting on airs, or of manifesting
an air of calmness or of having a bad spirit. We speak of breaking a persons spirit,
in the sense of discouraging and disheartening him. As applying to a group of persons
and the dominant force activating them, we may talk of getting into the spirit of an
occasion, or we may refer to the mob spirit that infects them. Metaphorically we may
refer to an atmosphere of discontent or to winds of change and revolution blowing
through a nation. By all of these we refer to this invisible activating force working in
persons, moving them to speak and act as they do.
Similarly, we read of Isaac and Rebekahs bitterness of spirit resulting from Esaus
marriage to Hittite women (Ge 26:34, 35 ) and of the sadness of spirit that
overwhelmed Ahab, robbing him of his appetite. (1Ki 21:5) A spirit of jealousy could
move a man to view his wife with suspicion, even to bring charges against her of
adultery.Nu 5:14, 30 .
The basic sense of a force that moves and gives drive or thrust to ones actions
and speech is also seen in the reference to Joshua as a man in whom there is spirit
(Nu 27:18), and to Caleb as demonstrating a different spirit from that of the majority
of the Israelites who had become demoralized by the bad report of ten spies. (Nu
14:24) Elijah was a man of much drive and force in his zealous service to God, and
Elisha sought a two-part share in Elijahs spirit as his successor. (2Ki 2:9, 15 ) John the
Baptizer demonstrated the same vigorous drive and energetic zeal that Elijah had
shown, and this resulted in Johns having a powerful effect on his listeners; hence he
could be said to have gone forth with Elijahs spirit and power. (Lu 1:17) By contrast,
Solomons wealth and wisdom had such an overwhelming and breathtaking effect on
the queen of Sheba that there proved to be no more spirit in her. (1Ki 10:4, 5 ) In this
same fundamental sense ones spirit may be stirred up or roused (1Ch 5:26; Ezr
1:1, 5; Hag 1:14 ; compare Ec 10:4), become agitated or irritated (Ge 41:8; Da
2:1, 3; Ac 17:16 ), be calmed down (Jg 8:3), be distressed, be made to faint (Job
7:11; Ps 142:2, 3 ; compare Joh 11:33; 13:21 ), be revived or refreshed (Ge 45:27,
28; Isa 57:15, 16; 1Co 16:17, 18; 2Co 7:13 ; compare 2Co 2:13).
Heart and spirit. The heart is frequently tied in with the spirit, indicating a definite
relationship. Since the figurative heart is shown to have the capacity for thinking and
motivation, and to be intimately related with emotions and affection (see HEART), it
undoubtedly has a major share in the development of the spirit (the dominant mental
inclination) that one shows. Exodus 35:21 places heart and spirit in parallel in saying
that everyone whose heart impelled him, . . . everyone whose spirit incited him,
brought contributions for the tabernacle construction. Conversely, on learning of
Jehovahs powerful works on behalf of Israel, the Canaanites hearts began to melt
and no spirit arose among them, that is, there was no urge to initiate action against
the Israelite forces. (Jos 2:11; 5:1 ; compare Eze 21:7.) References are also made to
pain of heart and breakdown of spirit (Isa 65:14) or similar expressions. (Compare Ps
34:18; 143:4, 7; Pr 15:13 .) Evidently because of the powerful effect of the activating
force on the mind, Paul admonishes: You should be made new in the force actuating
[form of pneu ma ] your mind, and should put on the new personality which was created
according to Gods will in true righteousness and loyalty.Eph 4:23, 24 .
The vital necessity to control ones spirit is strongly emphasized. As a city broken
through, without a wall, is the man that has no restraint for his spirit. (Pr 25:28) Under
provocation a person may act as the stupid one who impatiently lets all his spirit out,
whereas the wise one keeps it calm to the last. (Pr 29:11; compare 14:29, 30 .)
Moses allowed himself to become unduly provoked when the Israelites embittered his
spirit on one occasion, and he began to speak rashly with his lips, to his own loss.
(Ps 106:32, 33 ) Thus, he that is slow to anger is better than a mighty man, and he that
is controlling his spirit than the one capturing a city. (Pr 16:32) Humility is essential for
this (Pr 16:18, 19; Ec 7:8, 9 ), and the one humble in spirit will take hold of glory. (Pr
29:23) Knowledge and discernment keep a man cool of spirit, in control of his tongue.
(Pr 17:27; 15:4 ) Jehovah makes an estimate of spirits and judges those who fail to
guard themselves respecting their spirit.Pr 16:2; Mal 2:14-16 .
Spirit shown by a body of persons. As an individual may show a certain spirit, so
too a group or body of people may manifest a certain spirit, a dominant mental
inclination. (Ga 6:18; 1Th 5:23 ) The Christian congregation was to be united in spirit,
reflecting the spirit of their Head, Christ Jesus.2Co 11:4; Php 1:27 ; compare 2Co
12:18; Php 2:19-21 .
Paul refers to the spirit of the world in contrast with Gods spirit. (1Co 2:12) Under
the control of Gods Adversary (1Jo 5:19), the world shows a spirit of catering to the
desires of the fallen flesh, of selfishness, bringing enmity toward God. (Eph 2:1-3; Jas
4:5) Like unfaithful Israel, the worlds unclean motivation promotes fornication, either
physical or spiritual, with idolatry.Ho 4:12, 13; 5:4; Zec 13:2 ; compare 2Co 7:1.